Meh, if it's comparable it should be up on the block for comparison. I know they are completely different class but to compare a HD600 to like a mid class car vs the Ether Flow to a high end sports car is fair. Obviously the sports car is going to perform better but it should relate to people who are familiar with the the mid class car. I could get behind not comparing headphones to IEMs but even still they are indeed comparable if you know the limitations of each.

I would much rather have closed back cans due to their ability to block out background noise and as you mentioned in most cases provide a more immersive bass and sub bass. I love my bass but hate muddy bass...

I'm about to pull the trigger on the Ether Flow or Ether C Flow.. both have their advantages and all but I'm still trying to decide between the two. The Flow is obviously going to have a wider soundstage and the C Flow will likely have a punchier bass/sub-bass.
I listen to a lot of metal and also game often. I loved the LCD-X and XC but had to sell them off due to comfort issues. Now I have the Hifiman HE560 with upgraded pads and they are awesome. Very detailed and...

Are you sure they don't fit? They might be a little tight to begin with but by stretching the material it'll fit. I have a set of the Brainwavz angled pads on my TH900's and they fit and sound great. If that fails I think I remember seeing an ad from Moon-Audio that has the stock Fostex Pads in stock.